Hundreds of Indian Citizens With Jewish Heritage To Arrive in Israel
Hundreds of Indian citizens who claim to be Jews descended from the biblical tribe of Menashe will begin arriving in Israel in December.
The aliyah of 899 Indians, known as Bnei Menashe, was approved by Israel’s Knesset this week and will last for a year, according to Shavei Israel, an organization that tries to find lost Jews throughout the world and lobbied to bring the Indians to Israel.
Some 374 Bnei Menashe have immigrated to Israel over the past two years. Bnei Menashe must undergo a conversion process even though it is accepted as fact that they have Jewish roots.
Some 1,700 Bnei Menashe are living in Israel. As many as 9,000 remain in India and Burma.
I’m personally matching all gifts to the Forward, up to $36,000. Can I match your gift now?
Hello, fellow Forward reader! I’m Joel Brown, a Forward reader and supporter for more than 15 years, and currently the chair of the board of directors.
I’m an avid Forward reader because it ticks so many of my essential boxes: excellent journalism, Jewish focus and diverse viewpoints. In today’s political climate, what I most appreciate is the Forward’s independence — made possible by the generosity of its membership.
The Forward is committed to bringing you unbiased, nuanced Jewish news. From my position as board chair, I see an exciting future as we expand our position as the definitive independent voice of contemporary American Judaism.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
Support our mission to tell the Jewish story fully and fairly.
